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These Grilled Chicken Bites with Creamy Garlic Sauce have become a weeknight hero in my kitchen when I want something fast satisfying and packed with real flavor Each bite brings a little smokiness from the grill and the creamy garlicky sauce makes the whole dish feel special whether you are hosting friends or just feeding the family This recipe is all about maximum flavor from minimal effort and cleanup so you have more time to actually enjoy dinner
I still remember the first time my kids raced to snatch the last piece off the tray Now any time we have guests this recipe is top of the list and everyone always wants more of the sauce
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender moist and perfect for quick cooking Choose ones that are firm and a fresh pink color
- Olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the chicken juicy Use a flavorful extra virgin olive oil if you can
- Garlic powder: Gives deep mellow garlic flavor Double check yours is fresh for the best punch
- Onion powder: Layers on savory notes and balances the garlic
- Paprika: A little smoky and brings color Try smoked paprika for more grill flavor
- Salt and pepper: Essential for waking up all other flavors Kosher salt encourages even seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish: Lifts the dish with a bright green pop Choose flat leaf for best flavor
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Mayonnaise: Creamy and rich A quality brand brings clean taste
- Greek yogurt: Tangy and lightens up the sauce Full fat gives extra velvety texture
- Garlic: Fresh and strong Sets the sauce apart Use just peeled cloves for most flavor
- Lemon juice: Makes everything pop fresh and bright Squeeze it just before using
- Salt and pepper: Sharpens and balances the sauce
Step by Step Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut chicken into even bite sized pieces and pat dry Toss with olive oil garlic powder onion powder paprika salt and pepper in a big bowl Massage the seasoning in so each piece is coated and glossy
- Preheat the Grill:
- While the chicken absorbs the flavors heat your grill or grill pan to medium high Clean and oil the grates so nothing sticks Let it heat for five minutes to get those grill marks
- Thread and Grill:
- Thread chicken onto skewers if using leaving a touch of space between chunks Grill without moving for three to four minutes until deep marks appear Turn and cook another five to six minutes stirring or flipping as needed until golden outside and one sixty five degrees F inside
- Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- Mix mayonnaise Greek yogurt minced garlic lemon juice salt and pepper in a small bowl Whisk until totally smooth Taste and up the lemon or seasoning if you prefer more pop
- Rest and Serve:
- Transfer chicken to a plate and let it rest three minutes so the juices even out Serve warm with the garlic sauce drizzled over or on the side Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a fresh burst
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My favorite part is the sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving It brings color and a fresh bite that brightens the whole plate On family BBQ days my sister always asks for extra parsley and it has become a tradition to bring a big bunch to the table
Storage Tips
Store any leftover chicken bites in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to three days Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or microwave for quick lunches The creamy garlic sauce thickens when cold so just stir or splash in lemon juice to bring it back to dipping texture You can freeze completely cooled cooked chicken bites and thaw for salads or quick dinners
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs work beautifully if you want even juicier bites or deeper flavor If you need dairy free swap all mayo in the sauce and add extra lemon for balance Out of paprika Try cumin or a little chili powder for a new twist Swap fresh minced herbs for even more brightness or variety
Serving Suggestions
Pile chicken bites over herbed couscous or fill pita bread with the bites and crisp veggies They are delicious cold in green salads as summer lunch The garlic sauce doubles as a dreamy dip for roasted seasonal vegetables or as a potato salad dressing
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Cultural Notes
Grilled chicken skewers are loved around the world from Middle Eastern kebabs to Greek souvlaki This version is a home cook s take that is easy and accessible The simple spice mix and creamy sauce are nods to traditional dressings but made lighter and easy to share I always make a double batch for picnics and family meals outdoors
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep chicken bites juicy on the grill?
Coat the chicken with olive oil and avoid overcooking. Grill until just done and let the chicken rest for a few minutes so the juices redistribute, keeping each bite tender.
- → What can I use instead of mayonnaise in the sauce?
You can swap mayonnaise for additional Greek yogurt or use sour cream to achieve a lighter, tangy sauce without sacrificing creaminess.
- → Can I prepare the chicken bites ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken a few hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Grill right before serving for best texture and flavor.
- → Is skewering necessary for grilling the chicken?
Skewering helps with even cooking and easy handling, but it’s optional. You can grill the pieces directly on a hot grill pan or grate without skewers.
- → How can I add extra flavor to the sauce?
Try mixing in chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill, a pinch of smoked paprika, or a splash of hot sauce to deepen the flavor profile of the creamy garlic sauce.